The debates McConnell has proposed would feature no live audience, notes or props. The debates would be moderated by a single timekeeper.

“She’s really on the horns of dilemma right now," said Ernest Yanarella, the chair of the University of Kentucky's department of political science. "She is the younger and the greener of the two candidates, obviously, and she is, I’m sure, fully aware of Mitch McConnell’s debating skills. In a perfect world, I think she would prefer not to participate in a string of debates.”

On the other hand, Yanarella said if the debates go through, McConnell might have a hard time demonstrating his superiority to Grimes without alienating women voters.